‘Outstanding’ Coach Expresses Pride in West Ham Managerial Links

A few weeks ago, Julen Lopetegui was on the verge of being dismissed as West Ham’s manager following a disappointing run of form that left the team only six points above the Premier League relegation zone.

 

However, the Hammers have turned their fortunes around since their 3-1 defeat to Leicester City.

 

They’ve secured eight points from their last four matches, including a crucial 1-0 victory against Southampton in their most recent outing.

 

This improvement has significantly brightened Lopetegui’s prospects at the club.

 

One reason for the renewed optimism surrounding Lopetegui’s tenure is that Matthias Jaissle, one of the managers linked to the West Ham job, has effectively ruled himself out of contention.

Matthias Jaissle Responds to West Ham Speculation

 

Reports earlier this month from GiveMeSport suggested that West Ham had Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle on their shortlist should they decide to part ways with Lopetegui.

 

Speaking to the same outlet, Jaissle acknowledged that being linked to a club like West Ham is “flattering” and expressed pride in the association.

 

However, the 36-year-old manager made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Al-Ahli and remains fully committed to his current role.

 

“Being mentioned in relation to West Ham or any high-profile job is obviously flattering,” Jaissle said.

 

“It makes me proud to be linked with top clubs.

 

“But I don’t focus on rumours like this. I have an agent who handles any potential opportunities, and my full focus is on Al-Ahli.

 

This is the only job I can currently control and influence. I am committed to Al-Ahli, and I want to achieve something great here.”

Jaissle went on to explain his philosophy, emphasizing the importance of staying in the moment and dedicating himself fully to his current responsibilities.

 

“I often think about my own development and discuss possible next steps with my agent.

 

But I always reflect on my playing career, when I made big plans for the future, only to have those dreams cut short by an injury.

 

That experience taught me to stay in the present,” he said.

 

“My energy is focused on doing the best possible job with Al-Ahli.

 

This is a big and special club that deserves 100 percent of my attention.

 

Since arriving, I’ve felt the immense love for football here. Walking through Jeddah, you see how much Al-Ahli means to the fans. I hope to bring titles and trophies to this club.”

 

Jaissle’s Rapid Rise as a Manager

 

Matthias Jaissle’s coaching career began in 2017, three years after injuries forced him to retire from professional football.

 

In just seven years, he has built a reputation as one of the most promising young managers in the sport.

 

His journey started as an assistant manager at Brøndby IF before taking charge of Red Bull Salzburg’s Under-18s.

 

He later managed FC Liefering, a Salzburg feeder club, and was eventually promoted to Salzburg’s first-team manager in 2021.

 

Salzburg’s sporting director, Christoph Freund, praised Jaissle’s attributes during his appointment: “Matthias’s qualities speak for themselves.

 

He is young, ambitious, and suits our club well. His ability to develop young players is exceptional, and he was the ideal candidate for us.

 

He may not be a big name yet, but we believe in giving chances to both young players and coaches.”

 

Jaissle is regarded as an innovative coach who draws inspiration from unconventional sources, such as New Zealand’s rugby union team.

 

According to Goal.com, Jaissle avoids imposing practices he disliked as a player, such as long video sessions, and focuses on fostering team spirit.

 

His players reportedly enjoy working together as a cohesive unit, which facilitates effective high-pressing tactics.

During his time at Salzburg, Jaissle achieved remarkable success, winning back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and an Austrian Cup before taking over as Al-Ahli’s manager in 2023.

 

Looking Ahead

 

While Jaissle’s name has been linked to West Ham, his commitment to Al-Ahli appears unwavering.

 

His focus remains on achieving success with the Saudi Pro League club, where he has already established himself as a respected figure.

 

As for West Ham, Lopetegui’s recent results have provided some much-needed breathing room.

 

With Jaissle ruling himself out of contention, the Hammers appear to be sticking with their current manager as they aim to maintain their upward trajectory.